Step by step guide to refinancing

Switching to a new loan or a new lender can help soften the blow of the recent rate increases. Michael Lee, consumer services, Mates Rates Mortgages shows you how to do it effectively.

Step 1 - Make a wish list and prepare
To make your mortgage to work better for you, work out what you want it to do, then find a lender and loan offers the right fit. Sort the list from most important to least important. Work out features that are 'must have', versus those you might surrender if the price is right.

Conversion of equity to accessible cash to seize opportunity as it arises

Separation of security

Step 2 - Apply the blowtorch
Go to your current lender and apply the 'once more chance' approach. If they offer a better solution ask them to provide a written proposal based on your individual situation that explains:

What products they recommend to you, the respective loan amounts, and repayments

The bottom line cost, in dollars and cents detailing all fees, charges, and interest based on either a three or five year exit. Fees and charges should include all costs to change the facilities and to terminate the loan (should it be necessary)

How their solution fits your wish list of needs and wants

A full and accurate list of the fees and charges you will be charged to terminate your loans with them

By asking these questions, your lender knows you are serious and this encourages them to do their best. It also provides you with an accurate amount to factor into refinancing costs when making the decision to stay or go.

Step 3 - Check the market
Shop around with lenders directly or have a broker do it for you. A high-quality mortgage broker will provide you with an apple-to-apple comparison between loans and lenders as well as making the application and refinancing process simpler and more effective.

Make sure you provide the prospective lender or broker with the same information and requirements that you have provided to your existing lender. If you change your requirements, you should start the process again. This keeps the playing field level and improves reliance on bottom-line cost when comparing different options.

Step 4 - Weigh up the cost of your options
If you have done your work properly, you should now understand what you need from your mortgage solution and have a selection of loans that meet your needs to different degrees. You should also have a bottom line cost for each of these options, which then enables you to 'value' features that are or are not included.

Sort each option into cost from lowest to highest, then work your way through the list until you find the right balance between cost and features. Remember to add refinance costs such as mortgage duty (varies state to state) and your current lenders discharge costs and penalties when comparing new lender options.

If your main reason for refinancing is to reduce interest cost, you should expect to recover the cost of refinancing within 18 months. However, make sure you also assign value to other advantages such as increasing borrowing capacity, which allows you to take up opportunity, or getting better asset protection, which improves the security of your current investment strategy. How much this is worth though, is up to you.

When refinancing is not for you
Refinancing can benefit the majority of borrowers if the right help is achieved and a better overall outcome found. Switching however is not for all borrowers. If you have consolidated major debt into a refinance once before, it is time to seek professional advice on your debt ratio before your mortgage health.

If you are about to sell your home or investment property you should consider refinancing after the sale as your circumstance may alter significantly.

Whether you are looking to buy your first home, move home, refinance, or invest in property, a mortgage broker can help. Access loans from all the major lenders, get help with paperwork – plus there is no charge for this service. Get help from a local mortgage broker

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